Iona Speaks About Soaring Courageously

It has been over four weeks since episode 7 was published and through technical challenges we were able to finally have this final episode of the first season of “Iona Speaks About Soaring Courageously” go LIVE.   In this conversation with Ben Abell, several themes were explored of purpose, vision, and community transformation through faith. The importance of being rooted in God's word, the p...

As burnout is not linear there is a necessity to be whole and live wisely through chosen and unexpectant experiences. In this episode of Iona Speaks about Soaring Courageously, I  engage in a heartfelt conversation with life and health coach Mona Silbert ( https://www.monasilbert.com/ ). We explore themes of emotional intelligence, personal growth, and the journey of healing through adversity. Mon...

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Janet Little (affectionately known as Dr. Jan) speaks candidly about surrender, identity, and the integration of spirituality with medicine. In discussing the importance of recognizing the dark side of success, the role of faith in healing, and the necessity of listening to one's body are all crucial parts of holistic health. As you listen you will hear...

As our country has grown in their our understanding of the importance of mental health, it is still seen as a stigma in several disciplines (e.g. corporate and public). In this episode of Iona Speaks about Soaring Courageously, Iona R Rudisill speaks with Christi Venable, (https://www.refreshingsmile.com/christi-venable-ncc-lpc) CEO and founder of Smile Therapy Services, about the importance of me...

In this episode, I have an insightful and enlightening conversation with Dominiece Clifton. Dominiece is an entrepreneur who identifies herself as a “Business Doula,” who assists other entrepreneurs and professionals in birthing their purposes. In exploring the themes of courage, transformation, and the importance of clarity in personal and professional journeys healing occurs. The significance of...

In this empowering conversation, I discuss with Jeanna Bruce the importance of community, self-care, and innovative leadership. They explore how to overcome setbacks, the significance of clarity in communication, and the necessity of writing down visions with actionable steps. Jeanna shares her experiences as a black woman in leadership, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and representatio...

In this enlightening conversation, Barbara Nasir and I explore the themes of wellness, courage, and community engagement. Barbara shares her journey from a licensed practical nurse to a holistic health advocate, emphasizing the importance of ancestral wisdom and self-worth in health care. The discussion highlights the challenges faced in the medical profession, the need for effective communication...

In this powerful debut episode, Iona launches her transformative new YouTube channel, Iona Speaks About Soaring Courageously.   With authenticity and boldness, she invites listeners into a journey of healing, creativity, and self-discovery. She discusses her four "Ws" of Wellness: Wholeness, Willpower, Wisdom, and Worthiness, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, self-discipline,...

In a world that is ever changing, visions are paramount. So what is a Visionary Strategist? Someone who sees beyond the present, while acknowledging the present. This person maps out bold and transformative paths to success while inspiring others to do the same. This person is sensitive to the needs of others and pulls out untapped strengths for maximum results. Tam Luc is the epitome of this role...

Get ready to embrace boldness, courage, and the true meaning of fearless faith in Episode 9 of Iona Speaks about Defending Self-Justice . In this riveting conversation, we dive deep into how women can rise in the face of fear and uncertainty, navigating life’s obstacles with clarity and strength. The 35th United States President, John F. Kennedy, famously said, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” sym...

Honoring life is a profound and beautiful expression of recognizing the immense value in every breath we take and every experience we endure. It’s the ultimate acknowledgment of resilience that allows us to triumph over hardships and the grace that carries us through all situations. When we honor life, we embrace not only the victories but also the struggles—the moments of great pleasure and deep...

For centuries, society has viewed substance abuse through a narrow, judgmental lens, often labeling it a moral failure, social incompetence or lack of self-control. This dangerous misconception, rooted in elitist ideologies and systemic viewpoints, caused countless families to suffer in silence, isolated and fractured. It wasn’t until 1980, with the recognition of substance abuse as a mental healt...

In this soul-stirring episode, we explore the profound connection between spirit, soul, and body, diving into what it means to be created in the image and likeness of God. While some say the spirit gives life, and others say the soul breeds life, I believe that the soul compliments the spirit, nourishing and sustaining the body.  There are several scriptures which speak of the soul and how the sou...

Step into a world of heritage and history as we explore the depths of our ancestry and the stories that shape us. Join us for a heartwarming and enlightening episode where we delve into the power of knowing where we come from and how it impacts our identity and purpose. I remember sitting in the cozy living room of my Great Aunt Mary’s home during our annual Christmas holiday celebrations. Laughte...

Undervalued Heroes reside in the quiet corners of prominent spaces. These heroes don’t look for praise or acknowledgement because who they are and what they do is from the heart.  Dedicated and engaged fathers are these heroes, who are underappreciated for the immeasurable impact they have within their families and communities. Therefore, it is my honour and privilege to have an inspirational conv...

Trailblazing Women, are remarkable women of strength and innovation. They break barriers and make history in their prospective fields by inspiring and leading with unwavering determination.  In this episode I am honored to have a life-giving conversation with Dr. LaRay Imani Price “The Resilience Doc” (CEO and Founder of Women’s Inner Fitness & Wellness Center, LLC. www.wifwc.com ).  Dr. Price...

Historically, April has been denoted by our nation to focus on children and youth who have been abused in various forms (i.e physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, spiritual, etc.).  Children, youth, and families who have been unseen by the masses because their pain has been silenced, continue to thrive through collaborative efforts by champions who refuse to allow their voices to be unheard...

What better month than Women’s History month to speak about a mother’s heartbeat.  Within the symphony of life, there is a rhythmic cadence of a mother’s heartbeat that is a beautiful melody. In the tapestry of life, this melody speaks volumes.  It is a constant rhythm, an eternal love, a powerful strength, a posture of resilience, and warm comfort.  Before the existence of time, it was determined...

In the mind of our creator, Almighty God, we were perfect.  Yet because of one choice made, outside of His design, through manipulative and deceptive language, trauma entered into existence.   Therefore, we are perfect creations in imperfect bodies, living in an imperfect world, using restorative practices to heal from the trauma we were born into, the trauma we live in, and the trauma we have exp...

Whether it be physical, mental, spiritual, or psychological, healthcare is essential to the lifestyle of every human being in this world.  For centuries there have been disparities in how adults and children, men and women, races and ethnicities, as well as chosen lifestyles, and forced lifestyles through abusive situations are provided healthcare.  When we speak about receiving emergency healthca...

There is a beautiful, complex, and transformative bond between daughters and their mothers. Some relationships are close, some are stagnant, some are distant, and some are even nonexistent.  In celebrating these unique relationships filled with triumphs, love, challenges, lessons, and a multiplicity of memories, the mother daughter relationship is to be cherished.   Through tough times and growing...

September is nationally recognized as Hispanic Heritage month.  The theme of 2023 is "Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America".  What a powerful dynamic it is for individuals to know and understand their culture in order to promote their contributions to the educational, economical, political, and social growth of the United States.  However, is culture limited to jus...

In 2022 the Administration on Community Living (ACL) published a report on the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers   2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers .  This report was created to demonstrate the need for more bolstered and ethical practices to support the multimillions of caregivers in the world today, who are unpaid.    Increasing disabilities from sickness and dise...

Being a Defender of Self-Justice is not a "catch phrase" or an after thought but an intentional divine posture of identity.  A defender is someone who can be defined as a protector, a guardian, a steward, and a champion for what is right.  Simply put, the Defender of Self-Justice is a preserver of the righteuous gifts God has orchestrated within each of us that dictates how we should liv...

In the last episode, we unearthed another perspective of motherhood as it relates to infertility.  Since there is so much to discuss about this topic, we wanted to share more.  In this episode, we begin to delve into Michelle Browder's sculpture , "The Mothers of Gynecology," that was unveiled during the month of May in Montgomery, Alabama.  This sculpture highlights three emerging...